JDW Memorial Rodeo comes out of the gate this weekend

By HOMER MARQUEZ hmarquez@hearstnp.com

Published 4:04 am, Friday, July 24, 2015

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JDW Memorial Rodeo comes out of the gate this weekend

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Reviving the memory of a friend and a father, the community will continue to honor the spirit of Plainview's own Jess Dale Wyatt with the third annual memorial ranch rodeo slated for today and Saturday.

"We are just thankful for everyone that has supported this event," said Wyatt's aunt, J.V. Thomas, who is helping to organize the rodeo event.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Wyatt's children, Jaxon and Emily.

"He was more like a brother to me, and his kids mean the world to me," Thomas said.

Wyatt died on March 15, 2013 after succumbing to an illness at the age of 37.

Factoring in his love for the ranch life, his passion for horse riding and his love for the rodeo, the JDW Memorial Ranch Rodeo has served as an appropriate tribute for Wyatt.

The event will kick off today with a RCRA sanctioned women's ranch rodeo, featuring eight teams from Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma. Events that include branding, sorting, trailer loading, doctoring and mugging will start at 7 p.m. at the Plainview Bar-None Rodeo.

On Saturday, the open ranch rodeo will begin at 4 p.m. with the introduction of the teams. Events include branding, sorting, stray gathering and milking. So far, 11 teams have signed up to compete, but Thomas said they will still accept teams. For more information contact Thomas at 806-292-7968.

Books open for the Play Day at 8 a.m. and it starts at 9 a.m. for children in three age groups; 5 years of age and under, 6-8-year-olds and 9-12-year-olds.

There will be a $5 per event entry fee for barrels, poles, flag race and goat tying events.

A dance will begin at 8 p.m. featuring the Jason James Band. Tickets are $10 for singles and $15 for couples.